Laundry Tips to Get Pet Hair and Pet Stains Out of Clothes

We all love our furry friends, but let's face it—dealing with pet hair and stains is a whole other story! Here at Newberg Laundry, we get it. Our pets bring us endless joy, but sometimes their fur and unexpected messes leave our clothes needing a little extra TLC. So, whether it’s fur, muddy paws, or those little “oops” moments, here are some tried-and-true laundry tips to help you keep your clothes fresh and clean!



1. Getting Pet Hair Off Clothes

Pet hair seems to weave itself into fabrics, making it tough to remove, but don't worry—we've got some tips!

• Give Clothes a Quick Shake: Before tossing clothes in the wash, give them a good shake outside to loosen up as much fur as possible.
• Pre-Wash with Dryer Sheets: Place clothes in the dryer with a dryer sheet or two for about 10 minutes on a low-heat or air-dry setting. This helps loosen up pet hair so it ends up in the lint trap rather than on your clothes.
• Use the Right Washing Cycle: Wash clothes on a regular or bulky cycle, depending on the fabric. A bit more agitation can help lift pet hair off.
• Add White Vinegar: Adding a half-cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle helps loosen pet hair and can leave clothes feeling softer.
• Final Dryer Shake: After washing, toss the clothes back into the dryer with a fresh dryer sheet to pick up any lingering fur.

2. Getting Pet Stains Out of Clothes

Pet stains can be a bit tricky, but with the right steps, they’re manageable! Whether it's mud, drool, or a little accident, here’s what to do:

• Act Fast: The quicker you treat the stain, the easier it is to get out. Blot (don’t rub!) the stain with a clean cloth to remove as much as possible.
• Cold Water Rinse: Rinse the stained area under cold water to flush out as much of the stain as possible.
• Use an Enzyme-Based Stain Remover: Enzyme cleaners are especially effective for organic stains like those from pets. Apply it to the stained area and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
• Wash on Cold: Use a cold wash cycle to prevent the stain from setting, as heat can make it harder to remove.
• Check Before Drying: After washing, check if the stain is fully gone. If not, repeat the process before putting it in the dryer—otherwise, the heat can set the stain.

3. Helpful Tools and Tricks

• Lint Rollers: Keep one handy to remove any last bits of fur after washing.
• Rubber Gloves: A rubber glove can actually help remove pet hair from clothes before you wash them. Just dampen it slightly and rub it over the fabric; the hair sticks to the glove like magic!

4. Tips for Cleaning Horse Blankets

Horse blankets go through a lot—from mud and sweat to those occasional rainy-day rides. Here’s how to tackle these heavy-duty items:

• Brush Off Dirt and Hair: Before washing, use a stiff brush to remove dried mud, hair, and loose debris. This will prevent clogs in your washer and ensure a deeper clean.
• Put Horse Blankets in Mesh Bag: Before putting your horse blanket(s) in the washer, put them in a mesh bag to protect the washer’s glass door from the blanket’s buckles. The mesh bag will help soften the buckle impact while still getting your horse blanket(s) clean.
• Use a Gentle Detergent: Choose a mild detergent, as harsh chemicals can weaken the fabric and irritate your horse’s skin.
• Cold or Warm Wash Cycle: A cold or warm cycle is best for horse blankets, as hot water can damage the waterproofing.
• Skip the Fabric Softener: Fabric softener can coat fibers, reducing the blanket's breathability. Instead, add a cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle to neutralize odors and help soften the fabric.
• Air Dry Thoroughly: Hang the blanket outside or in a well-ventilated area to air dry completely. This preserves its shape and waterproofing.

Drop By Newberg Laundry!

When you’re in a rush or tackling bigger loads, we’re here for you! Newberg Laundry has the space, machines, and tips to help you manage all your laundry needs. Be sure to ask one of our attendants at our locations about handling the items mentioned above. With locations in Springfield, Newberg, and McMinnville, we’re just a short trip away. Plus, if you need a break from all that fur and fluff, our delivery service can handle pickup and drop-off, saving you time to spend with your pet!